STEM Remix: Classic Concepts & Fresh Ideas Annual Idaho STEM Conference: Full Schedule

Welcome to the Annual Idaho STEM Conference, presented by ICTM, ISTA, IDEEA, and CSTA! Join us on July 30th and 31st at Mountain View High School in Meridian, Idaho. An optional field trip day will be held on August 1st at various locations.

Need to register, click here. You will be prompted to create or log into a Sched account before purchasing your ticket. If you have used Sched for a previous event, you can log in with the same account. Be sure to save your account information, as you’ll need it later to create and access your schedule.

10:45am MDT

The Confidence Catalyst: Empowering Yourself to Inspire Young Scientists

Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am MDT

TBA

If you have ever been afraid that you don’t know enough about Science to teach it–this is the breakout session for you. With some simple strategies and resources–you can awaken the inner scientist in yourself and in your students. Join an Idaho Science Coach for a session of a-ha moments and exciting opportunities.

Speakers

Lee Slichter

Idaho Science Coach

Lee Slichter is an Idaho Science Coach committed to inspiring impact and cultivating capacity. Plan to come away from your experience encouraged and excited. She is passionate, well-read, and always willing to support teachers in or out of the classroom.

Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
TBA

Science, K-2, 3-5, 6-8

global Y

10:45am MDT

Science and Literacy Integration: The Science Classroom Meets the Science of Reading

Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am MDT

TBA

Today’s teacher has a multitude to accomplish each day. How do we fit it all in? In this session, we share how using rich, inquiry-based learning will not only build science knowledge but also the skills needed to increase language comprehension.

We build on principles from the language comprehension side of Scarborough’s Reading Rope as we introduce, explore, and make sense of science concepts in today’s classroom. Learn how three-dimensional science teaching and learning provides meaningful context to develop language comprehension. A lesson from the FOSS program will be used to provide context for our learning.

Speakers

Deb Vannatter

FOSS-School Specialty

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1c_l0d0WSOLzC-LpOTdMtrB5--VnPHG7c/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=101384849517522952636&rtpof=true&sd=true... Read More →

Wednesday July 30, 2025 10:45am - 11:45am MDT
TBA

Science, K-2, 3-5 | General, K-2, 3-5

global Y

1:00pm MDT

From Wonder to Discovery: Making Science Phenomena-Based

Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT

TBA

How do we move science instruction from rote memorization to meaningful exploration? This session will dive into the power of phenomena-based learning—a strategy that begins with curiosity and leads to deep, standards-aligned understanding. Grounded in the 5E model and the three dimensions of science learning, participants will explore how to anchor instruction in real-world phenomena, create space for student-driven inquiry, and use practical tools to make implementation simple and effective. You'll walk away with ready-to-use strategies, planning ideas, and access to digital resources to support your classroom. Let’s make science a journey—from wonder to discovery.

Speakers

Catie Bales

Inquisitive.com

As Head of Curriculum and Instruction at Inquisitive, Catie Bales is passionate about lightening the load for teachers while still delivering deep, meaningful learning experiences for students. With over 15 years of experience in public education—from classroom teacher to Instructional... Read More →

Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
TBA

Science, K-2

global Y

1:00pm MDT

Sensemaking and Elementary Science: That Just Makes Sense!

Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT

TBA

A critical component of any science lesson is the opportunity for students to make sense of their experiences and connect back to the critical knowledge and standards of learning. How do we make the TIME for this to happen? We purposefully plan and implement it as part of the lesson cycle. Join us as we learn more about this meaningful and engaging process called sensemaking. A lesson from the FOSS program will be used to provide context for our learning.

Speakers

Deb Vannatter

FOSS-School Specialty

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1c_l0d0WSOLzC-LpOTdMtrB5--VnPHG7c/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=101384849517522952636&rtpof=true&sd=true... Read More →

Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
TBA

Science, K-2, 3-5 | General, K-2, 3-5

global Y

1:00pm MDT

Lessons Learned and Successes Earned in a STEM Workforce Development Afterschool Program

Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT

TBA

The TMC Works program enlists early-career STEM-curious individuals to plan, prepare and lead hands-on, inquiry-based STEM activities with young children. In doing so, participants develop STEM and workplace skills necessary to succeed in the jobs and careers they ultimately pursure. Program participants work with mentors who train and coach them through their development, who develop superior supervisory skills in the process. TMC Works program sites benefit by increasing their STEM programing offerings and improving the quality of their programs. Throughout the process, participants gain exposure to STEM careers in Idaho, which will ultimately lead to more skilled candidates entering the workforce.

In this presentation, learn about the successes and challenges faced in this innovative workforce development program. Hear about their experience from program participants themselves, and behind-the-scenes details from the program coordinators on training, evaluation and site support.

Speakers

Amy Post

Idaho Out-of-School Network

Amy Post is an experienced, non-traditional educator who taught science and environmental education at nature centers, schools, parks and recreation programs, afterschool programs, an organic farm, a botanical garden, and a zoo. She’s also a fully-certified alpine ski instructor... Read More →

Wednesday July 30, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
TBA

Science, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Technology, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Engineering, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Math, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Out of School/Informal Education, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12

global Y

2:15pm MDT

Breaking Down Barriers: a discussion on partnerships between formal and informal STEM Educators

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT

TBA

In this session we will explore how to strengthen relationships between formal K-12 educators and informal community educators. We will discuss the benefits of these kinds of collaboration and partnerships. We will also discuss barriers to these partnerships and begin exploring how to address and overcome those barriers. This session will hopefully be the first step in a larger discussion that will carry on beyond this conference.

Speakers

Janice Alexander

Environmental Education Program Coordinator, Idaho Environmental Education Association

I am a scientist, educator, and facilitator. I want to work with other engaged and committed people toward the improved stewardship of our environment and the nurturing of our communities.

Ashley Schaffner

Idaho STEM Ecosystem

Ashley Schaffner started her journey in STEM as a first grade teacher in Blackfoot, Idaho. In 2019, Ashley decided it was time to move back to her hometown of Pocatello and began teaching 3rd and 4th grade at a charter school there. At this time she was able to serve as a part of... Read More →

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT
TBA

global Y

2:15pm MDT

Using Language and Literacy Strategies to Enrich Science Teaching

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT

TBA

How do we effectively teach science content when our students are still learning the vocabulary and language of science? Natalie Wexler explains in Beyond the Science of Reading (2025) that background knowledge is an essential element of the Science of Reading and that the vocabulary and language of academic content must be explicitly taught. This class will explore strategies from dual-immersion and language acquisition research to discuss how to connect literacy to science content and immerse learners in the language of science. Although the activities will be based in science content, many of the strategies will be applicable to other content as well.

Speakers

Jeffrey Blauer

American Falls School District #381, Hillcrest Elementary

Jeffrey Blauer has taught for almost two decades in many different situations. He has provided numerous classes centered around technology, resilience, parent engagement, and language acquisition. He currently teaches the Spanish Second Grade Dual-Immersion in American Falls. His... Read More →

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT
TBA

Science, K-2, 3-5 | General, K-2, 3-5

global Y

2:15pm MDT

Bot Builders: Creating Interactive Learning Environments with Tech

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT

TBA

Teaching curriculum standards while incorporating technology can be overwhelming. This session demonstrates how to bridge the gap between traditional curriculum and technology using engaging tools like Ozobots, Bee-Bots, micro:bits, and Scratch. These tools offer hands-on coding experiences that align with K-5 curriculum standards, fostering creativity and critical thinking. Attendees will explore practical strategies to integrate these technologies into their classrooms, enhance student engagement and support the development of 21st-century skills. By the end of the session, teachers will be ready to seamlessly incorporate coding and technology into their lessons.

Speakers

Stacie Knight

West Ada Schools

With 25 years of teaching experience, Stacie is a dedicated educator who has made a significant impact in the lives of her students. She is a wife and mother of two teenagers, 18 and 15 years old, which gives her personal and professional experiences. Throughout her career she has... Read More →

Nicole Sarty

West Ada Schools

As a veteran teacher of 30 years, Nicole has had a front row seat to how technology has changed students' learning opportunities. Children have always been constructors of their own learning, and the current technology is here to help them navigate their journey or get them completely... Read More →

Wednesday July 30, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT
TBA

Technology, K-2, 3-5 | Science, K-2, 3-5 | Engineering, K-2, 3-5 | Math, K-2, 3-5 | General, K-2, 3-5

global Y

3:30pm MDT

Growth and Change with Idaho STEM Action Center

Wednesday July 30, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm MDT

TBA

Over the next year the Idaho STEM Action Center will be merging into the Workforce Development Council. Come and learn about the changes and how they will affect the programs you currently interact with via the STEM AC. Along with that, learn about new upcoming opportunities and ways to engage in STEM Education throughout Idaho.

Exhibitors

Katie Bösch-Wilson

Idaho STEM AC

Katie is the STEM Education Coordination Officer at the Idaho STEM Action Center.

Wednesday July 30, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm MDT
TBA

Science, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Technology, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Engineering, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Math, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | General, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12

global Y

1:00pm MDT

Tech Tools for the STEM Classroom

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT

TBA

This session will cover many technology tools and websites to help enhance learning in the STEM classroom. There will be a lot of information covered in a short amount of time so be prepared. Teachers will leave with a toolbox of resources for a variety of uses in and out of the classroom. A Chromebook will be needed for this session.

Speakers

Jamie Clark

William Thomas Middle School

Jamie teaches 8th grade Earth Science at William Thomas Middle School. She also serves as the Region 5 representative of the Idaho Science Teaching Association. Jamie is passionate about science education and making science learning accessible to all learners.

Thursday July 31, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
TBA

Science, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Technology, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Engineering, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | Environmental Education, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12 | General, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12

global Y

2:15pm MDT

Innovating and Transformational Science Curriculum that embraces a 3-dimensional, anchoring phenomena approach to engage and motivate student learning.

Thursday July 31, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT

TBA

Learn more about the next generation of inquiry-based, research-driven science resources designed to achieve all of the targeted NGSS performance expectations through an approach that matches the vision of three-dimensional learning. By using relevant phenomena, students will work through carefully crafted storylines as a learning community, while engaging in intentional sense-making activities that require use of the science and engineering practice. Using this approach, student move their thinking forward towards an accurate understanding of the disciplinary core ideas.

Speakers

Teresa Rockwood

Kendall Hunt Publishing Company

Teresa Rockwood, Science Curriculum Specialist Teresa has a strong background in K12 education as she has taken on various roles at the school and district levels from classroom teacher, STEM Director, Science Coach, Content Specialist and Science Curriculum Developer.  She most... Read More →

Thursday July 31, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT
TBA

Science, K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-12

global Y

2:15pm MDT

Lit Up STEM: Integrating Literacy and STEM for Deeper Learning

Thursday July 31, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT

TBA

Lit Up STEM! This session explores how to effectively integrate literacy into STEM education, demonstrating that language arts skills are not just supplementary, but essential for deep STEM understanding and engagement. This interactive session will showcase how literacy skills (reading, writing, speaking, and listening) can be seamlessly woven into STEM instruction to enhance student understanding, critical thinking, and engagement. Participants will learn practical strategies and activities for integrating ELA standards into STEM projects to enhance student learning in both STEM and ELA through hands-on activities and real-world examples.

Speakers

Jen Rude

Twin Lakes Elementary

Jen Rude is a veteran teacher whose passions are STEM and literacy. She is currently a 3rd grade teacher in the Lakeland School District after having been a reading specialist. She has worked with Project Learning Tree for several years and was named the PLT Environmental Educator... Read More →

Thursday July 31, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT
TBA

Science, K-2, 3-5 | Environmental Education, K-2, 3-5 | General, K-2, 3-5

global Y

2:15pm MDT

A review of AI Tools: Definitions, Functions, and Applications for K-12 Education

Thursday July 31, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT

TBA

Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolutionizes education by supporting personalized
learning, critical thinking, and problem solving through tools like intelligent
tutoring systems and adaptive platforms. Visionary educators recognize AI’s
potential in the classroom. According to IBM, AI will not completely replace
humans, but those who use AI will replace those who do not. This session will
provide an overview of AI tools and platforms for K-12 education, with
the hope of serving as a practical reference for teachers to use these tools.
We will identify and reviewscurrently available and popular AI tools and their applications in K-12
education. This session will provide quick references for teachers on how they can harness various AI
tools for different teaching and learning purposes, along with addressing ethical concerns such as data privacy and algorithmic biases.

Speakers

Gina Kwid

Galileo STEM Academy

Gina is an educator at Galileo STEM Academy in the West Ada School District. She integrates educational technology across all subject areas including 3-D printing, coding, robotics, drones, and maker space. She loves watching her students use project-based learning (PBL) to support... Read More →

Thursday July 31, 2025 2:15pm - 3:15pm MDT
TBA

global Y

STEM Remix: Classic Concepts & Fresh Ideas Annual Idaho STEM Conference

From $82.51